Developer selected for UK’s first LGBT+ extra care housing scheme

Manchester City Council has selected Anchor Hanover to develop the first LGBT+ extra care housing scheme for over 55s in the UK. The 100-home scheme on Russell Road, Whalley Range, south Manchester, is the first LGBT+ senior living housing project to be worked up with charity LGBT Foundation. Anchor Hanover aims to invest £20m in the scheme and LGBT Foundation will contribute an online journal detailing its progression for other councils using Homes England finance. The flats will include a mix of affordable rent and shared ownership tenures, with on-site services including care and catering. Manchester City Council launched plans for the development in 2017. It has worked closely with LGBT Foundation to tailor the requirements, including operations and the level of care, and launched a community steering group. The groups will work towards a planning application submission later this year. Paul Martin, chief executive at LGBT Foundation, said: “Many older LGBT people have grown up in a world hostile to their identities, and are worried about their future, particularly if they are likely to require care in later life. This scheme is a vital and exciting step forward for our communities and the learning journal will track our journey and share recommendations for other schemes that will follow.” Bev Craig, Manchester City Council’s lead member for adult health and wellbeing, said: “Our ambition came on the back of years of research and engagement with older LGBT people. “We already know LGBT+ people are more likely to be lonely later in life, and as this community is growing, it shows that this extra care is not only welcome but absolutely needed.”   To send feedback, e-mail emma.rosser@egi.co.uk or tweet @EmmaARosser or @estatesgazette Picture © Manchester City Council